5th Grade Band

5th Grade CavBand 2025
🎶 YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN THE CAVALIER BAND🎶

MAKE MUSIC, MEMORIES, AND FRIENDS!

🎵 Join the Cavalier Band Family Today! 🎵

How to Get an Instrument

🎷 Renting (Highly Recommended!)

• If you don’t own an instrument, renting for the first 12 weeks is strongly encouraged.

• After the trial period, you can rent-to-own, purchase, or return if needed.

• Some students may be asked to switch instruments for better suitability.

🎶 Trusted Local Music Stores:
✅ Rettig Music (Weekly school visits for instrument/supply needs)
✅ Celina Music  

⚠️ Purchasing a Used Instrument from a private seller? Beware!

• Poor-quality instruments found online can cause frustration and hinder success.

• Contact Mr. Ruckman for trusted brand recommendations.

🔧 Already Own an Instrument?

• Have it checked at a music store before school starts to ensure it's in good playing condition!

5th Grade Summer Band Camp! 

Want to get a head start and hit the ground running? Here's where the magic begins with instrument-specific training at our summer camp: 

August 4th, 5th, & 6th

9:00- 9:45 am: Flutes & Percussion 

9:45-10:30 am: Clarinets, Trumpets, & French Horns 

10:30- 11:15 am: Saxophones & Trombones

Essential Supplies List

🎵 Flute:

• Cotton handkerchief (tied to the handle, not loose in case)

• Book: Habits of a Successful Beginning Band Musician – Flute

🎵 Clarinet:

• 3-pack Rico 2.5 clarinet reeds

• Cloth swab, cork grease

• Book: Habits of a Successful Beginning Band Musician – Clarinet

🎵 Alto Saxophone:

• 3-pack Rico 2.5 reeds OR a school reed card ($10 for 5 reeds)

• Cloth swab, cork grease

• Book: Habits of a Successful Beginning Band Musician – Alto Sax

🎵 Trumpet:

• Small valve oil, slide grease

• Clean cotton cloth/handkerchief/cut-up T-shirt

• Book: Habits of a Successful Beginning Band Musician – Trumpet

🎵 French Horn:

• Clean cotton cloth/handkerchief/cut-up T-shirt

• Book: Habits of a Successful Beginning Band Musician – Horn

🎵 Trombone:

• Slide oil OR Yamaha Trombone Slide Lubricant

• Clean cotton cloth/handkerchief/cut-up T-shirt

• Book: Habits of a Successful Beginning Band Musician – Trombone

🥁 Percussion:

• Innovative Percussion F8 Marimba Mallets

• Innovative Percussion Lalo Davila Snare Sticks

• Protec Heavy Ready Stick Bag

• Recommended for home: Real Feel Apprentice Practice Pad

• Book: Habits of a Successful Beginning Band Musician – Percussion

Frequently Asked Questions

🧐 What instruments are taught?
🎺 Flute, Clarinet, Alto Sax, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Percussion

📅 When does band practice?

• Monday: Full Band

• Tuesday: Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone

• Wednesday: Trumpet, Horn, Trombone

• Thursday: Full Band

• Friday: Percussion

❓ What instrument is best for my child?
Some physical traits (bite alignment, lip shape, finger size, etc.) can impact success on certain instruments. Mr. Ruckman is happy to meet individually with students to help them choose the best fit!

🎼 What effort is expected?

• Regular home practice

• Properly maintained instrument

• Attendance at rehearsals and concerts

• Strong parental support and encouragement

⚽ Can my student do band AND other activities?
Absolutely! 🏀🏈⚾🎭 Many students participate in sports, clubs, and extracurriculars. Our school administration ensures scheduling conflicts are minimal. Band is a great way to be well-rounded and involved!

Please note: Students who elect to sign up for band are enrolled in class for the entire year. 

📱 Text @cavbandjh to 81010 to receive important updates!

Dan Ruckman, Director of Bands
📧 ruckman.dan@coldwatercavs.org
📞 419-678-4821